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The Mississippi Department of Health on Wednesday confirmed its first case of the flu in the state and is advising all residents to get vaccinated as soon as possible.(Photo: File Photo/AP)

Last year's flu virus was a deadly matter. Influenza killed about 61,200 people in the U.S. in the 2018-2019 season, according to figures released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That same year, 116 children died of the virus, including a 2-year-old girl from Sumrall, Mississippi.

"(The) flu vaccine is the best way to protect both children and adults from serious complications such as hospitalization, and in many cases, death," Byers said.

Where can I get a flu shot?

The department advises all Mississippi residents to get vaccinated, but says it's particularly important for young children, pregnant women, residents over 65 years of age and residents with underlying health problems.

Those 18 and under who are eligible for the Vaccines for Children program can receive a flu vaccination for $10. Insurance, Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is accepted for children’s flu shots.

Adults who are underinsured or uninsured and meet high-risk criteria qualify for an adult flu vaccination at MSDH county clinics.

Flu shots for insured adults are now available through private physicians, pharmacies and retail centers.

What are the symptoms of flu?

Flu symptoms include:

Fever

Cough

Sore throat

Muscle and body aches

Fatigue

When is flu season in Mississippi?

Byers said flu season can occur as early as November and as late as March in Mississippi but usually peaks from December through February.

Most people recover from the flu without complications, but there are up to 200,000 hospitalizations nationwide from the flu each year, according to the department.

The 2017-2018 flu season was the worst in more than three decades, according to the CDC, which recorded about 80,000 deaths. The previous high was 56,000 deaths.